A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Grindelwald vs. Lofoten Islands for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Grindelwald or Lofoten Islands?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Grindelwald and Lofoten Islands can help you decide which place is right for you.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a beautiful, adventure-filled, and high adrenaline town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the skiing, nightlife, and food.

Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a charming, quaint, and spectacular archipelago. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food.

Grindelwald and Lofoten Islands: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Lofoten Islands?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lofoten Islands. Although Grindelwald and Lofoten Islands are both popular with visitors, Lofoten Islands has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lofoten Islands is more popular for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Grindelwald is known for its skiing, nightlife, and small town charm. Grindelwald is more touristy than Lofoten Islands and is known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Lofoten Islands is popular for its dramatic mountain peaks, beautiful fjords, remote setting, and colorful houses. It is also home to The Svolvær Goat Trail.

How is Grindelwald different from Lofoten Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lofoten Islands and Grindelwald. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Grindelwald or Lofoten Islands Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Lofoten Islands is not a skiing destination.

People head to Grindelwald specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. Most of the skiing in the area is best for intermediate level skiers. There are also some places for beginners to ski, but not a lot of options for advanced skiers. The resort is relatively large with 30 lifts and some cross country skiing options as well.

Lofoten Islands is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Grindelwald or Lofoten Islands?

Lofoten Islands is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lofoten Islands. The charming towns often have local museums that highlight the region's history and culture. The Lofoten War Memorial Museum is in the town of Svolvaer. The Lofotr Viking Museum is on the island of Vestvågøy and the Lofoten Museum is in Kabelvåg.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Grindelwald. If you happen to have poor weather, there are very few indoor activities around town. The area is all about the views and the outdoor setting, so weather is key when visiting.

Is the Food Better in Grindelwald or Lofoten Islands? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lofoten Islands is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Lofoten Islands is an experience not to be missed. Fish and lamb are both common at most restaurants in the area. The food is fresh, delicious, and filling, and although it's expensive, it's also high quality and uniquely local.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Grindelwald. You'll find a casual pizza joint, a cafe, fine dining, and a handful of other restaurants in town.

Is Grindelwald or Lofoten Islands Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Grindelwald. You'll find the most bars of any of the Jungfrau ski resorts in town. Most are attached to a hotel and offer a nice place to enjoy a drink in a laid back setting.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Lofoten Islands. Some towns have local bars and pubs that are fun places to grab a drink.

Is Grindelwald or Lofoten Islands Better for Beaches?

Lofoten Islands is well known for the beach. However, Grindelwald is not a beach destination.

Lofoten Islands is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Most people don't think of the Arctic when they think about beaches, but these islands have long sandy beaches that meet blue waters. They're tucked in between valleys and mountains and offer a surreal Arctic landscape.

Grindelwald is not a beach destination.

Is Grindelwald or Lofoten Islands Better for its Old Town?

Lofoten Islands is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Lofoten Islands. The islands are filled with well-preserved fishing villages that are charming and quaint.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Grindelwald or Lofoten Islands Better for Hiking?

You'll find fantastic hiking in both Grindelwald and Lofoten Islands.

Many people visit Grindelwald specifically for its hiking. Hiking in the area offers spectacular views of the Bernese Alps including Wetterhorn, Eiger, Jungfrau, and Breithorn. There are trails that cater to all levels and hiking is the best way to explore the countryside.

Known for its hiking, Lofoten Islands draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. It's remote setting and dramatic scenery lead to some truly breathtaking hikes. You'll find trails that pass by beautiful beaches, climb spectacular peaks, and wander through the beautiful countryside. Reinebringen, Horseid Beach, and Bunes Beach are among the favorite hikes in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Lofoten Islands?

Lofoten Islands is very good for its shopping areas. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for shopping.

Many visitors go to Lofoten Islands to go shopping. There are quirky local shops that sell local art, food, and merchandise.

Grindelwald is a good destination for shopping. There are places to pick up sporting equipment that you may have forgotten. Many shops are seasonal and the turnover is frequent as the tourist season ebbs and flows.

Is Grindelwald or Lofoten Islands Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Grindelwald or Lofoten Islands.

Grindelwald is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area is filled with outdoor adventures like hiking, ziplining, and cog railways. There are hikes for every age and skill level and older kids will enjoy the ropes courses and other outdoor activities.

Lofoten Islands is a very family-friendly destination. Outdoor adventures await at this breathtaking archipelago. There's kayaking, hiking, whale watch, and even a few Viking museums that the kids will enjoy.

Is Grindelwald or Lofoten Islands Better for Couples?

Lofoten Islands is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Lofoten Islands has plenty to offer. Stunning views, dramatic fjords, and world class outdoor adventures make this an amazing romantic destination for couples. If you enjoy the outdoors and adventure activities, then there is no shortage of opportunities to explore here.

Grindelwald is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Most people don't visit for the town itself, but instead for the many outdoor adventures in the area. Couples that enjoy hiking and skiing will appreciate a visit to this beautiful alpine setting.

Is Grindelwald or Lofoten Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald and Lofoten Islands are very good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Grindelwald is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.

Lofoten Islands is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are plenty of hostels around but transportation can be a bit tricky.

Is Grindelwald or Lofoten Islands Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Grindelwald is very good for its public transit. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for times when you don't have a car.

Grindelwald has a few public transit options. There are local buses that travel around the region.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lofoten Islands. There are buses and ferries, but the service is limited, although reliable.

Is Grindelwald or Lofoten Islands a more walkable city?

Grindelwald is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for its ease of walking around.

Grindelwald is a somewhat walkable place. Most places in town can be reached on foot but there can be a lot of traffic on the main thoroughfares.

Lofoten Islands is not a very walkable town. Although the area is filled with hikes, you really must have a car if you hope to explore it with flexibility and accessibility.

For even more information, also check out Is Grindelwald Worth Visiting? and Is Lofoten Islands Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lofoten Islands or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Lofoten Islands?

Both Grindelwald and Lofoten Islands have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lofoten Islands than in Grindelwald. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Grindelwald, and 4-7 days is enough time in Lofoten Islands.

Families should spend more time in Lofoten Islands than Grindelwald. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lofoten Islands, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lofoten Islands than Grindelwald. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lofoten Islands that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lofoten Islands than Grindelwald if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Lofoten Islands.

One day in Grindelwald or Lofoten Islands?

Grindelwald is a small town with plenty to do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the remote archipelago of Lofoten Islands. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Grindelwald or Lofoten Islands?

Grindelwald might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the spectacular destination of Lofoten Islands. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This archipelago offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Grindelwald or Lofoten Islands?

Grindelwald is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the remote archipelago of Lofoten Islands. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Grindelwald or Lofoten Islands?

Since Grindelwald is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Lofoten Islands. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the hiking. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this archipelago.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Switzerland, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, The Best Contiki Tours to Norway, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Oslo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Grindelwald and Lofoten Islands, we can see that Grindelwald is more expensive. And not only is Lofoten Islands much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lofoten Islands would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lofoten Islands and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Grindelwald would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Grindelwald than you might in Lofoten Islands.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Grindelwald Expensive? and Is Lofoten Islands Expensive?.